Fresh Air, Billy Bob Thornton and Eddie Izzard

Actor, director, screenwriter Billy Bob Thornton and British comedian Eddie Izzard on this edition of Fresh Air The 1996 film Sling Blade which Billy Bob Thornton wrote, directed and starred in put him on the map and earned him an Academy Award for Best Adapted screenplay. He was nominated for an Academy Award for his role in the 1998 film A Simple Plan. Last year he directed the film All the Pretty Horses. This past year, he starred in the Coen Brothers The Man Who Wasn't There, Bandits (which is now out on video) with Bruce Willis, and Monster's Ball. Before he got into acting, he was interested in a music career. Last fall he released a new CD on which he sings his own songs, Private Radio. Eddie Izzard has won over fans with his quirky comedy and his cross-dressing. The Chicago Tribune says "Izzard lives up to his billing. He's very bright, very fast and very hip." As an actor, Izzard has appeared in the films Mystery Men, The Avengers, and The Velvet Goldmine. His new film is The Cat's Meow. (Broadcast Dates: January 9, 2002 and April 26, 2002)